Artist and curator, Bro. Edward Praediger, joins R.W. Grand Master James L. Ernette in cutting the ribbon to open the new Masonic Homes' Art Gallery.

Again, Masonic Homes' residents have come together to express an interest. And, again, the Masonic Homes has recognized their interests and accommodated them with the resources to make it a reality.

Members of the Masonic Homes Art Association were joined by R.W. Grand Master James L. Ernette on Aug. 15 for the ribbon-cutting ceremony at a new studio and gallery. Then, on Sept. 17, the Masonic Homes Art Association and Gallery held an open house for Masonic Homes residents and the community. Visitors were invited to view the gallery and its exhibits, as well as enjoy refreshments and the company of artist and curator, Edward Praediger, Canby Lodge No. 520, St. Petersburg, PA.

The idea for an art association began when Bro. Praediger and his wife, Wilma, moved to the Masonic Homes' independent living area in August 1997. He expressed an interest in starting an art association and found that many of the residents were eager to join him in this new endeavor.

Joseph E. Murphy, Executive Director/CEO of the Masonic Homes, said, "We try to encourage residents to continue their interests when they come to live here, and if we find that a number of individuals share a common interest, we do what we can to provide them with the resources they need to pursue that interest."

Some of them created art for a living, some studied art in college, some enjoyed art as a hobby, and some had never tried their hand at art, but had a desire to learn. They are a group of people who want to enjoy art and learn from one another. They want to have the opportunity to use different media such as pen and ink, oils, watercolor and charcoal, to create their art.

Bro. Praediger has taught painting in Philadelphia; Somers Point, NJ; and Florida. Now he is teaching weekly classes in the new studio.

"It is an honor to work with a man who is 99 years old (Bro. Praediger) and is still a good teacher," remarks Ralph Barisci, also of Lodge No. 520, an independent living resident.

Any resident of the Masonic Homes who has an interest in art is welcome to become a member of the Masonic Homes Art Association. The gallery is located in the independent living area and is a place where members can create artwork and learn new techniques. The members' artwork is also displayed in the gallery.